Scheuermann's Kyphosis

Scheuermann's kyphosis is an abnormal
spinal curvature
syndrome which is also commonly known as Scheuermann's disease or Calvé disease (however, it is not
a disease by any means). The condition is a form of juvenile spinal osteochondrosis
which can be congenital or early developmental in origin. Like most other forms
of atypical kyphosis,
the condition almost always affects the
thoracic spine
as its primary area of influence, creating visual deformity and possibly, functional impairment.

Scheuermann's disease can come in many levels of severity ranging
from barely noticeable to frightening and debilitating. Patients are
always advised to seek qualified care from a specialist once diagnosed.

This investigation provides an overview of Calvé disease, including the source of the condition and the usual treatment options used to provide relief for affected patients.

Scheuermann's Kyphosis Definition

Scheuermann's disease is characterized like many other forms of thoracic
hyperkyphosis. The patient will demonstrate an abnormally severe
curvature in the upper back, similar to a hunch or hump. Posture
will be very poor, with the body bent forward to one degree or
another and the neck and chin pushed forward at an awkward angle.

The causes of Scheuermann's disease are not fully understood, with a
variety of theories circulating in the various medical communities.
Currently, the disorder is mostly considered largely idiopathic. It should be
known that the prognosis for Scheuermann's disease also ranges
considerably. Some cases progress virtually indefinitely, while others are completely stable.

Scheuermann's Disease Concerns

Besides the postural issues associated with Scheuermann's, there are a number of sometimes more serious factors to consider:

Advanced cases of Calvé disease may prevent much physical activity due to poor
balance issues. Additionally, compression of internal organs is
possible and may affect the heart, lungs and other structures,
potentially causing serious health consequences. This is often the main
reason cited for aggressive surgical treatment.

Thoracic back pain
is possible in some cases, but many patients do not have any discomfort. Minor cases blamed for causing pain are almost always
misdiagnosed,
but obviously, advanced cases can be terribly symptomatic on rare occasion.

Patients may have pain due to muscular issues, neuroforaminal
stenosis enacting pinched nerves or central spinal stenosis. A few
patients have no pain at all, but do suffer mild to extreme neurological
dysfunction when nerve structures are compressed by severe curvatures.

Scheuermann's Kyphosis Considerations

Most cases of Scheuermann's disease are mild and not particularly
problematic. Severe cases will be visually obvious and present the
possibility for causing
chronic back pain,
limited physical functionality and the very real possibility for organ damage and eventual failure.

Treatment for minor cases is mostly used to increase function and
prevent deterioration of the condition. The modalities used include
specialized and general physical therapy practices and sometimes,
complementary care, such as
chiropractic treatment.

Bracing
may be useful in some instances. For severe cases, surgical treatment
is often indicated, but should only be utilized in the most symptomatic
circumstances, since the type of
spinal fusion
used is the most brutal and invasive possible.

We always suggest that diagnosed patients seek specialized care from an expert in atypical spinal curvatures in order to optimize their therapeutic outcomes.

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